Imagine being given a second chance at life—one where you have more energy, better health, and the ability to enjoy the things you once loved. For many people living with liver failure, a liver transplant offers just that.

According to Dr Ankur Garg, Director & Senior Consultant, Centre for Liver-GI Diseases and Transplantation (CLDT) at Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, the statistics speak volumes about the success of liver transplants. "One year following a liver transplant, 93 out of 100 patients survive, whereas 83 out of 100 survive five years later. These numbers illustrate the transforming effect of a successful liver transplant," he explains.

"When conducted on the right candidates—those who are healthy enough for surgery—the treatment can have a life-changing outcome," Dr Garg stresses.

Dr Garg describes the transformation that many patients experience after a successful liver transplant as remarkable. "It’s not just about survival; it’s about improving the quality of life," he states.

Here’s what most patients can look forward to, as per Dr Garg:

Freedom from Liver Disease: "The fear of dying from liver disease becomes a thing of the past. A transplant gives the body a fresh start, reducing risks and complications associated with liver failure."

Increased Energy: "A common sentiment among recipients is a burst of energy. Many feel rejuvenated, as though they’ve gained years of vitality back."

A Longer Life: "Most patients live significantly longer after receiving a liver transplant, allowing them more time with loved ones, to achieve personal goals, and enjoy life to the fullest."

Return to Normal Life: "A transplant often allows patients to return to activities they love—working, travelling, and other pursuits they had to put on hold. It’s about reclaiming freedom," Dr Garg explains.

Dr Garg says that the liver is the body's largest organ, responsible for processing nutrients, medicines, and hormones, as well as producing bile to aid in the absorption of lipids, cholesterol, and fat-soluble vitamins. "It also plays a role in producing blood clotting proteins, removing toxins and germs from the blood, preventing infections, and controlling immune responses," he explains.

He adds that individuals with severe complications from end-stage chronic liver disease are typical candidates for liver transplantation. "Although a liver transplant can treat acute liver failure, it is more commonly used for chronic liver failure, which progresses slowly over months and years," Dr Garg states.

He identifies the leading causes of chronic liver failure, with cirrhosis being the most prevalent. "Cirrhosis results from the replacement of normal liver tissue with scar tissue, eventually leading to the cessation of liver function," he explains.

"Hepatitis B and C, alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and genetic liver illnesses are the primary causes of cirrhosis, which can lead to liver failure and the need for liver transplantation," Dr Garg adds.

Dr Garg concludes, "A liver transplant is more than a medical operation; it marks the beginning of a new chapter in one's life. For individuals who are qualified and fit for the operation, the potential advantages are truly life-changing."

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